How to Build a Log Cabin Base

A concrete base for a small log cabin does not usually require wire mesh.

Many people build log cabins to have a place for fun and relaxation; the structure can range from simple to elaborate. Regardless of the cabin type, a sound structure starts with the log cabin's foundation. The type of foundation depends of the structure, region and personal preference. Log cabin manufacturers may recommend a certain type of foundation for their product. Depending on the location, property owners may choose to construct a foundation made of railroad ties, slab on grade, crawl space, full foundation with basement or other design.

Things You'll Need

• Flags
• 2-inch by 4-inch planks
• Screws
• 2-inch by 2-inch planks
• Carpenter's level
• Gravel
• 6 mm polyethylene vapor barrier
• Concrete
• Hammer
• Edging tool
• Curing compound

Instructions

1. Discuss the specifics for building a slab on grade foundation with the local building code inspector. Learn about required techniques for constructing the foundation, including site preparation, drainage and the use of vapor barriers. Lay out the dimensions for the foundation. Make the measurements 4 inches wider around the perimeter in accordance with the cabin's exterior walls. Mark the corners of the area with stakes or flags.

2. Excavate the foundation area. Dig deeper around the perimeter to allow for an integral footing. Follow the local code to determine the proper depth, which includes a gravel layer. Follow local codes for adding foam insulation in areas prone to freezing.

   Remove enough soil to add a layer of gravel and pour a 4-inch thick concrete slab in the area between the integral footing. Use a tamper to pack the gravel. Place reinforcement rods around the perimeter to reinforce the footing. Place wire mesh over the remaining surface. Use 2-inch by 4-inch boards to build a form around the foundation area. Screw the boards together.

3. Place the carpenter's level on the top of the forms to check for level and along the sides to ensure straight boards. Measure from diagonal to diagonal to make sure the structure is square; make adjustments as necessary. Drive 2-inch-by-2-inch stakes into the soil every 48 inches. Screw the stakes to the form. Use a reciprocal saw to level the top edge of the stakes with the form. Stakes strengthen the form and ensure the structure holds the wet concrete in place until it cures.

4. Fill along the bottom perimeter of the form with soil, which minimizes the amount of concrete seepage. Perform a final check of the form with the carpenter's level. Cover the area with a 6-millimeter polyethylene vapor barrier per local code. The vapor barrier prevents moisture from seeping up through the ground.

5. Pour the concrete with the assistance of a helper. Use a length of 2-inch by 4-inch board as a screed. Pull the screed along the edge of the form to help settle the concrete. Have the assistant use a rake to pull the concrete in front of you. Tap along the entire perimeter of the form with a hammer to release air bubbles that develops between the form and the concrete.

6. Use a bull float to remove screed marks and fill low spots in the concrete. Allow the water to rise to the surface and disappear before finishing the concrete by hand. Use an edging tool to round the edges of the foundation. Insert the anchors for the cabin.

7. Spray curing compound on the concrete to ensure it maintains the correct moisture level during the cure process. Allow the concrete to set overnight before removing the form. Wait another 48 hours before starting the cabin construction.

References

• Family Handyman: Form and Pour a Concrete Slab
• Log Cabins: The Log Blog Step inside the blog cabin for everything you need to know about log cabins... Blog Home How to Build a Concrete Base for Your Log Cabin
• Concrete Garden Leaves: How to Form a Concrete Slab
• Concrete Network:Three Types of Concrete Foundations